Little Adam’s Peak: Experience The Best Hike In Ella, Sri Lanka

A distant view of clouds above the Little Adam’s Peak in Sri Lanka during a cloudy day.

Little Adam’s Peak is a popular hiking destination in Sri Lanka. This place has gained fame as it resembles the larger Adams Peak. Offering breathtaking beauty and scenic views, the peak is one of the top tourist destinations in the country. Being a popular hiking destination, this place is renowned for its easy trek and picturesque views, perfect for practising photography. With time, this place has become an ideal spot for nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts and tourists of Sri Lanka.

About Little Adam’s Peak

Two Buddha Statues are placed in a region just beneath the peak of Little Adam’s Peak in Ella.

Photo: Hs Lamahewage / Wikimedia Commons

The peak is surrounded by lush tea plantations, greenery and misty valleys. On average, this peak attracts hikers daily. Little Adam’s Peak height is 1,141 metres above sea level, and the hike is moderately difficult, catering to both beginners and experienced hikers. There are multiple trails to the peak offering a scenic journey through tea estates and dense forests. On reaching the summit, trekkers come across the wonderful views of Ella Town and Ella Gap.

Location

A close-up view of Little Adam’s Peak from Ravana Cave Trail, surrounded by lush greenery.

Photo: A.Savin / Wikimedia Commons

This peak is located in the town of Ella, particularly in the Uva Province of Sri Lanka. The peak lies in the central highlands of the country. Right next to the peak lies the famous Ella Rock and Nine Arches Bridge, making this peak one of the popular tourist destinations in the country.

How To Reach

A flight of tourists landing at Bandaranaike International Airport near Little Adam’s Peak.

Photo: ANKAN / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

This peak is easily accessible from nearby areas or the Ella town centre by the following ways:

By Air: Visitors travelling to the peak via air shall land at the Bandaranaike International Airport. After landing, they shall travel to the city of Ella with the help of public transportation or private taxis and later reach the peak.

By Train: Visitors travelling by train shall get down at Ella Train Station. Visitors can further take a tuk-tuk or hire a taxi to reach the base of the peak.

By Road: This peak is easily accessible from Ella Town with public transportation options. Visitors can hire a tuk-tuk or a taxi near Passara Road from the city centre.

Things To Do

There are multiple things to do at Little Adam’s Peak, which promise a unique experience to all visitors. Each thing caters to the preferences of all visitors and offers a holistic experience of the place.

1. Hike Up The Peak

An image of one of the peaceful trails captured by a trekker while hiking up the peak.

Photo: Hs Lamahewage / Wikimedia Commons

Indulge in the Little Adam’s Peak hike, where trekkers come across a scenic route. They can spot the green gardens, lush tea plantations and meadows all around. The hike is nearly 2-3 kilometres from the base. Visitors can also opt for guided trekking. The hiking is moderately difficult and lets trekkers enjoy panoramic views of the Ella Gap, Ella City and surrounding green hills and villages. Trekkers can also spot the Nine-Arched Bridge during the Little Adam’s Peak steps​.

Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 hours

2. Practice Photography At The Summit

A panoramic image of the picturesque landscape captured from the Little Adam’s Peak.

Photo: Alexey Komarov / Wikimedia Commons

This peak has some of the best spots for practising photography. During the early morning or late evening, the sky lights up with shades of orange, red, pink and yellow, creating a mystical, dreamy effect. Soft shadows while practising photography are ideal for portraits. There are dynamic landscapes, including tea plantations and meadows, great for capturing photos. One of the recommended things to do while photographing is to capture silhouette shots of the surrounding hills and meadows.

Ideal Trip Duration: 1 hour

3. Watch A Sunset Or A Sunrise

An image of the sun setting down amidst the hills and trees, captured from Little Adam's Peak.

Photo: Hs Lamahewage / Wikimedia Commons

Little Adam’s Peak sunrise is a magical experience for all. Watching the sunrise lets trekkers admire the misty valleys and rolling hills. During the morning, soft hues illuminate the landscape. Trekkers shall start hiking by 4 in the morning to reach the peak on time. It is recommended to know about the sunrise and sunset timings as they differ according to the seasons.

Ideal Trip Duration: 1 hour

4. See The Buddha Statue At Little Adam’s Peak

An image of a large Buddha Statue is placed near the peak of Little Adams, Sri Lanka.

Photo: gz320142117 / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only

Buddha Statues are an iconic landmark not only on the peak but in the entire Ella Region. This place offers both a spiritual and a picturesque experience. The Buddha Statue is just a short distance off the trail and has a bench for trekkers to sit on. The place once again offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys. The Buddha Statue lies in the meditative pose, which symbolises peace and serenity.

Ideal Trip Duration: 30 – 1 hour

5. Enjoy Beverages At 98 Acres Resort And Spa

Pretty views of the hills captured from the 98 Acres Resort, a top site near Little Adams.

Photo: neufal54 / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only

After an adventurous hike to the peak, trekkers shall come down and visit the 98 Acres Resort and Spa. This place is just a kilometre from the peak and offers beautiful views of the surrounding area. Visitors can enjoy some hot beverages or soft drinks at this resort. This place is a top place for leisure and can be visited anytime during the day. 98 Acres Resort and Spa offers accommodation options as well.

Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 hours

Places To Visit Near Little Adam’s Peak

There are multiple places to visit in the vicinity of Little Adam’s Peak and in the city of Ella as mentioned below.

1. Nine Arched Bridge

The alluring architecture of the famous Nine-Arched Bridge, a place near Little Adam’s.

Photo: Surangi Kasturirathne / Wikimedia Commons

The Nine Arched Bridge is among the top tourist destinations in Ella, Sri Lanka. This site has a separate viewpoint which offers magnificent views of the bridge and its surroundings. The bridge was built in the colonial era and is surrounded by lush greenery. There are several cafes nearby for tourists to have leisure time. The path to this bridge leads from ample tea plantations and dense forests.

Distance From The Peak: 2.4 km
Ideal Trip Duration: 40 minutes to 1 hour

2. Kuda Ravana Ella Waterfall

Milky white water thrusting down on rocks at Kuda Ravana Ella Waterfalls in Sri Lanka.

Photo: A.Savin / Wikimedia Commons

This place is a popular site in Ella and draws many tourists. This waterfall is among the widest waterfalls in the country and is approximately 25 metres in height. Kuda Ravana Ella Waterfall is also known as Ravana Waterfall or Ella Waterfall, and it forms a part of the Ravana Ella Wildlife Sanctuary. The shape of this waterfall resembles an Areca Flower with withering petals during the wet season. The falls have been named after the legendary king Ravana.

Distance From The Peak: 6.6 km
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 hour

3. Ella Rock Trailhead

Lush green meadows at the Ella Rock Trailhead, an interesting spot near Little Adam’s Peak.

Photo: A-wiki-guest-user / Wikimedia Commons

Ella Rock Trailhead is a typical hiking area in Ella, Sri Lanka. Watching the sunrise at this point is one of the recommended things to do. The hike to Ella Rock is challenging yet rewarding. There is a designated viewpoint at the top of Ella Rock for trekkers to admire the magnificent views and also spot the famous peak. The rock is basically a cliff right above the city of Ella. Visitors also get options for a guided trekking experience.

Distance From The Peak: 8.7 km
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 hours

4. Ravana’s Cave

Writings found on the walls of Ravana’s Cave, an ancient site to visit near Little Adam’s.

Photo: A.Savin / Wikimedia Commons

Ravana’s Cave is a secluded cliff cave in the city of Ella. This cave is an ancient site which is linked to a mythological Hindu King, Ravana. The cave lies between a dense forest and is accessed by steep steps. Inscriptions can be found on the walls of the cave. This cave is believed to be 4000 years old and promises a historical approach to all visiting it. Excavations have uncovered evidence of human habitation in the cave dating back 25,000 years.

Distance From The Peak: 4.7 km
Ideal Trip Duration: 30 minutes to 1 hour

5. Diyaluma Falls

Water at the Diyaluma Falls in Ella, Sri Lanka, makes its way between the large rocks.

Photo: Venushka Fonseka / Wikimedia Commons

Diyaluma Falls is a short drive from Ella and is the second-highest waterfall in the country. This waterfall is 220 meters high and is located amidst a dense forest. The place is peaceful and offers visitors a leisurely experience. Milky white water rushes down and flows in between the rocks at the base of the falls. A guided tour option to this waterfall is available to visitors. Diyaluma Waterfall has natural pool options, which are perfect for both swimming and cliff jumping.

Distance From The Peak: 42.4 km
Ideal Trip Duration: 3 hours

Where To Stay

An image of a bed inside a hotel in the vicinity of Little Adam’s Peak in Ella, Sri Lanka.

Photo: maxfranke / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only

There are multiple options for accommodation in Ella, the city home to the peak. One of the nearest options is 98 Acres Resort and Spa, which lies on the way while hiking. Other notable options include Ravana Range Ella, Green Hill Ella, Ella Deck Resort and Oak Ray Ella Gap Hotel.

Where To Eat

A Margherita Pizza is served at one of the top restaurants near Little Adam’s Peak in Ella.

Photo: zuzi99 / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only

Several restaurants lie in the vicinity of the peak. These restaurants offer multi-cuisine dishes and cater to the taste buds of all. Some of the notable options are Cafe Samsara, Cafe Chill, Cafe UFO Ella, White Rabbit, Hiking Bar and Restaurant and The Barn by Starbeans.

Best Time To Visit

An image of a helicopter based on the neighbouring hills was captured from Little Adam’s Peak.

Photo: A.Savin / Wikimedia Commons

The best time to visit the peak is during the dry season from the months of December to March. The weather is clear and has moderate temperatures, ideal for hiking. The peak is best visited during the morning and late evening for silhouette views.

Other Factors To Consider

Carry all the important travel things on your visit to the famous tourist attractions in Sri Lanka.

Photo: Rana Sawalha / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

Average Cost Of The Trip

While there is no entry fee for visiting the peak, there might be some costs for dining and accommodation. On average, a one-night stay in Ella with dining options can range up to ₹ 8000 per night.

Tips For Travellers

  • It is recommended to know about the sunrise or sunset timings before hiking. Timings may change according to the season.
  • It is important to check the weather before proceeding, as during monsoons, the trails might be slippery. Interrupting showers may hinder your hiking experience.

The peak promises a unique experience to all. This place is more than a hiking spot and is a primary gateway to breathtaking views, rich culture and a peaceful time. Whether visitors trek to the summit or simply relax at the resort, capturing views of the surroundings, the peak has something for all. Now that you know about this majestic landmark in Ella, book a trip with TripXL to Little Adam’s Peak, Sri Lanka and admire its utter beauty.

Cover Photo: Gayan Perera / Wikimedia Commons

Frequently Asked Questions

It takes about 2.5 hours to hike and return from Little Adam’s Peak. The hike is relatively easy and depends on your speed.
Yes, the peak is different from Adams Peak. Adams Peak is much higher and has a longer hike as compared to Little Adams.
No, there is no entrance fee to climb Little Adam’s Peak, but guided trekking might cost a price.
The trek along the trails of Little Adam’s Peak is nearly 1.7 miles. There are multiple trails offering a scenic journey while trekking.
The Nine Arched Bridge is almost a kilometre away from Little Adam’s Peak. This place is one of the important landmarks of Ella.

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